Bourbon Glazed Shrimp is a tasty treat that combines sweet and smoky flavors. The juicy shrimp soak up a delicious bourbon sauce that makes every bite a party for your taste buds!
Honestly, who doesn’t love shrimp covered in a yummy glaze? I like to serve it over rice or with some crunchy veggies for a colorful meal. It’s so easy and fun to make—perfect for a quick dinner! 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use scallops or even chicken pieces, though you’ll need to adjust cooking times.
Bourbon: Bourbon adds a wonderful depth to the glaze. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider vinegar or a mix of apple juice with a splash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a smart choice if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari or coconut aminos.
Brown Sugar: While brown sugar gives a nice caramel note, you can use honey or maple syrup as a sweeter alternative. Just adjust the amount to taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds brightness, but if you’re in a rush, garlic powder can work too. Around 1/8 teaspoon should do it!
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Don’t Overcook?
Timing is key to juicy shrimp! Overcooking can turn them rubbery. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Start with shrimp that are all the same size for even cooking.
- Cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on size.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked, as they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat.
- If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer; shrimp are cooked at 120°F (49°C).
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy making this recipe! 🦐✨
Bourbon Glazed Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Bourbon Glaze:
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a delightful dinner party dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bourbon Sauce:
Start by whisking together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until the sugar is fully dissolved. Set this lovely glaze aside for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they start turning pink. Then, flip them over and pour the bourbon glaze you made earlier over the shrimp.
4. Finish Cooking:
Continue cooking the shrimp, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes or until they are fully cooked through and the glaze has thickened slightly. You’ll notice the shrimp becoming beautifully coated in the sticky sauce!
5. Serve Up with Style:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and chopped chives or green onions for that final touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy these delicious bourbon glazed shrimp as an appetizer or over rice or salad for a well-rounded meal. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp first for even cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze. Additionally, try mixing in some diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bourbon glaze in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat it in a saucepan on low heat before adding it to the shrimp.
What Should I Serve With Bourbon Glazed Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables or over creamy grits for a delicious twist!